Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

We pursue our national interests and project the UK as a force for good in the world. We promote the interests of British citizens, safeguard the UK’s security, defend our values, reduce poverty and tackle global challenges with our international partners.



Secretary of State

 Portrait

David Lammy
Foreign Secretary

Shadow Ministers / Spokeperson
Liberal Democrat
Lord Purvis of Tweed (LD - Life peer)
Liberal Democrat Lords Spokesperson (Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs)
Calum Miller (LD - Bicester and Woodstock)
Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Foreign Affairs)

Conservative
Priti Patel (Con - Witham)
Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs
Junior Shadow Ministers / Deputy Spokesperson
Conservative
Lord Callanan (Con - Life peer)
Shadow Minister (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Wendy Morton (Con - Aldridge-Brownhills)
Shadow Minister (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Junior Shadow Ministers / Deputy Spokesperson
Conservative
Andrew Rosindell (Con - Romford)
Shadow Parliamentary Under Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs)
Ministers of State
Stephen Doughty (LAB - Cardiff South and Penarth)
Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Parliamentary Under-Secretaries of State
Lord Collins of Highbury (Lab - Life peer)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Catherine West (Lab - Hornsey and Friern Barnet)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Hamish Falconer (Lab - Lincoln)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
There are no upcoming events identified
Debates
Wednesday 2nd July 2025
Select Committee Docs
Tuesday 1st July 2025
10:30
Select Committee Inquiry
Thursday 27th March 2025
The UK Government’s China Audit

Although China is the UK’s fifth largest trading partner, the UK Government has, in recent years, described China as an …

Written Answers
Thursday 3rd July 2025
Sri Lanka: Human Rights
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with his Sri …
Secondary Legislation
Wednesday 2nd July 2025
Haiti (Sanctions) (Amendment) Regulations 2025
These Regulations are made under the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018 (c. 13) to amend the Haiti (Sanctions) Regulations …
Bills
Monday 13th June 2022
Northern Ireland Protocol Bill 2022-23
Make provision about the effect in domestic law of the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland in the EU withdrawal agreement, about …
Dept. Publications
Thursday 3rd July 2025
17:37

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Commons Appearances

Oral Answers to Questions is a regularly scheduled appearance where the Secretary of State and junior minister will answer at the Dispatch Box questions from backbench MPs

Other Commons Chamber appearances can be:
  • Urgent Questions where the Speaker has selected a question to which a Minister must reply that day
  • Adjornment Debates a 30 minute debate attended by a Minister that concludes the day in Parliament.
  • Oral Statements informing the Commons of a significant development, where backbench MP's can then question the Minister making the statement.

Westminster Hall debates are performed in response to backbench MPs or e-petitions asking for a Minister to address a detailed issue

Written Statements are made when a current event is not sufficiently significant to require an Oral Statement, but the House is required to be informed.

Most Recent Commons Appearances by Category
Jun. 24
Oral Questions
Jul. 01
Written Statements
Jul. 02
Westminster Hall
Apr. 30
Adjournment Debate
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Bills currently before Parliament

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office does not have Bills currently before Parliament


Acts of Parliament created in the 2024 Parliament

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has not passed any Acts during the 2024 Parliament

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office - Secondary Legislation

These Regulations are made under the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018 (c. 13) to amend the Haiti (Sanctions) Regulations 2022 (S.I. 2023/1281) (the “2022 Regulations”). These amendments are being made to ensure compliance with the UK's UN obligations, specifically to ensure changes made by UN Security Council Resolution 2752 (2024), adopted by the UN Security Council on 18th October 2024, are reflected.
These Regulations are made under the Sanctions and Anti Money Laundering Act 2018. They make amendments to a number of sanctions regulations.
View All Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Secondary Legislation

Petitions

e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.

If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.

If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).

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Departmental Select Committee

Foreign Affairs Committee

Commons Select Committees are a formally established cross-party group of backbench MPs tasked with holding a Government department to account.

At any time there will be number of ongoing investigations into the work of the Department, or issues which fall within the oversight of the Department. Witnesses can be summoned from within the Government and outside to assist in these inquiries.

Select Committee findings are reported to the Commons, printed, and published on the Parliament website. The government then usually has 60 days to reply to the committee's recommendations.


11 Members of the Foreign Affairs Committee
Emily Thornberry Portrait
Emily Thornberry (Labour - Islington South and Finsbury)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 11th September 2024
John Whittingdale Portrait
John Whittingdale (Conservative - Maldon)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Blair McDougall Portrait
Blair McDougall (Labour - East Renfrewshire)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Uma Kumaran Portrait
Uma Kumaran (Labour - Stratford and Bow)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Dan Carden Portrait
Dan Carden (Labour - Liverpool Walton)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Aphra Brandreth Portrait
Aphra Brandreth (Conservative - Chester South and Eddisbury)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Abtisam Mohamed Portrait
Abtisam Mohamed (Labour - Sheffield Central)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 22nd October 2024
Edward Morello Portrait
Edward Morello (Liberal Democrat - West Dorset)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Richard Foord Portrait
Richard Foord (Liberal Democrat - Honiton and Sidmouth)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Phil Brickell Portrait
Phil Brickell (Labour - Bolton West)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 16th December 2024
Alex Ballinger Portrait
Alex Ballinger (Labour - Halesowen)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 16th December 2024
Foreign Affairs Committee: Upcoming Events
Foreign Affairs Committee - Private Meeting
7 Jul 2025, 1 p.m.
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Foreign Affairs Committee - Oral evidence
Work of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
8 Jul 2025, 10 a.m.
At 10:30am: Oral evidence
Sir Oliver Robbins KCMG CB - Permanent Under-Secretary at Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
Nick Dyer - Second Permanent Under-Secretary at Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
Tim Jones - Finance Director at Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)

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Foreign Affairs Committee - Oral evidence
Work of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
8 Jul 2025, 1:15 p.m.
At 1:30pm: Oral evidence
The Rt Hon David Lammy MP - Secretary of State at Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
Sir Oliver Robbins KCMG CB - Permanent Under-Secretary at Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)

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Foreign Affairs Committee: Previous Inquiries
Environmental diplomacy The Myanmar crisis Coronavirus: FCDO response The UK and Iran The FCDO and the Integrated Review The FCO's human rights work in 2013 Gibraltar The UK's relations with Hong Kong: 30 years after the Joint Declaration FCO performance and finances 2013-14 Hong Kong Russia and Ukraine Overseas Territories FCO consular services UK policy towards Iran UK Government policy on the Kurdistan Region of Iraq The future of the BBC World Service Developments in Libya The fight against ISIL: the UK's role inquiry FCO budget and capacity inquiry Libya: Examination of intervention and collapse and the UK's future policy options inquiry Costs and benefits of EU membership for the UK's role in the world inquiry Foreign policy developments Progress of the Iraq Inquiry British Foreign policy and the 'Arab Spring': follow-up Appointment of Lord Hill of Oareford to the European Commission Hong Kong: China's ban on the Committee's visit Government foreign policy towards the United States Foreign and Commonwealth Office performance and finances 2012-13 Departmental Annual Report 2010-11 FCO Public Diplomacy: The Olympic and Paralympic Games 2012 FCO's Human Rights Work 2010-11 Overseas Territories British foreign policy and the 'Arab Spring' FCO's human rights work in 2011 The future of the European Union: UK Government policy The role and future of the Commonwealth UK's relations with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain The UK's response to extremism and political instability in North and West Africa The UK’s influence in the UN inquiry The UK’s response to hurricanes in its Overseas Territories inquiry Global Britain inquiry The Commonwealth Summit inquiry Responsibility to protect and humanitarian intervention inquiry Russian corruption and the UK inquiry Session with Minister of State for Africa inquiry The Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s Human Rights Work inquiry The Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s preparations for the World Cup inquiry The Western Balkans inquiry The future of the UK Overseas Territories inquiry Global Britain and India inquiry Global Britain: FCO skills inquiry The work of the Minister of State for the Middle East Global Britain and South America inquiry Global Britain: The future of UK sanctions policy inquiry FCO budget and capacity, and annual report 2017-18 inquiry Finding a diplomatic route: European responses to irregular migration inquiry The World Food Programme inquiry The Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Global media freedom inquiry Autocracies and UK Foreign Policy inquiry FCO secure communications and handling of classified information inquiry The future of Britain’s diplomatic relationship with Europe - follow up inquiry Beyond Aid: The UK’s Strategic Engagement in Africa inquiry Human rights: Freedom of religion and belief, and human rights defenders inquiry The Caucasus inquiry The UK and Iran’s regional role inquiry Economic foreign policy inquiry The UK’s policy towards the Middle East Peace Process inquiry UK relations with China inquiry The FCO policy on arms exports inquiry Evidence from HE Lord Llewellyn of Steep on his appointment as HM Ambassador to Paris inquiry Resignation of Lord Hill of Oareford from the European Commission inquiry FCO budget and capacity, and Annual Report 2015-16 inquiry Violence in Rakhine State inquiry China and the international rules-based system inquiry FCO budget and capacity, and annual report 2016-17 Oral evidence from the Foreign Secretary Kurdish aspirations and the interests of the UK inquiry The future of Britain’s diplomatic relationship with Europe inquiry Political Islam inquiry UK's relations with Russia inquiry Human rights inquiry The future operations of BBC monitoring inquiry Human Rights: Annual review of the work of the FCO inquiry UK's relations with Turkey inquiry Implications of leaving the EU for the UK's role in the world inquiry The UK’s role in strengthening multilateral organisations FCO-DFID merger Xinjiang detention camps Global health security Update to the UK's Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy Critical minerals Western Balkans The UK’s engagement in Central Asia The UK’s international counter-terrorism policy The UK’s engagement with the Middle East and North Africa International relations within the multilateral system The BBC World Service: Is Britain Losing its Soft Power? Work of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict The work of the British Council Soft power: a strategy for UK success? Disinformation diplomacy: How malign actors are seeking to undermine democracy The UK’s sanctions strategy The UK-EU reset: rebuilding a strategic partnership in uncertain times The UK at the United Nations Security Council The UK Government’s China Audit Beyond Aid: The UK’s Strategic Engagement in Africa Autocracies and UK Foreign Policy The future of Britain’s diplomatic relationship with Europe- follow up inquiry China and the international rules-based system Economic foreign policy Finding a diplomatic route: European responses to irregular migration FCO budget and capacity, and annual report 2017-18 The Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Global media freedom FCO secure communications and handling of classified information Human rights: Freedom of religion and belief, and human rights defenders Global Britain and South America Global Britain: The future of UK sanctions policy The work of the Minister of State for the Middle East Global Britain and India The future of the UK Overseas Territories Oral evidence from the Foreign Secretary The UK’s influence in the UN Session with Minister of State for Africa Responsibility to protect and humanitarian intervention The Caucasus The UK and Iran’s regional role The World Food Programme

50 most recent Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department

23rd Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to ensure that international law is upheld in the current situation in Iran.

The UK has engaged with a wide range of partners during the current crisis, emphasising that stability, de-escalation and restraint are key, and urging all parties to seize the opportunity for a diplomatic solution. We have consistently stressed that all sides must abide by international law.

Lord Collins of Highbury
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
18th Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what are the Palestinian organisations and individuals that are currently subject to UK sanctions.

The UK currently sanctions Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine - General Command (PFLP-CG), and a number of individuals that support the use of violence. All UK sanctions designations are available to the public via the UK Sanctions List: docs.fcdo.gov.uk/docs/UK-Sanctions-List.html

Lord Collins of Highbury
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
19th Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Saudi Arabia about the execution of Turki al-Jasser, and about the reported increase in executions, including for non-violent offences.

No aspect of our relationship with Saudi Arabia prevents us from speaking frankly about human rights and officials in our Embassy in Riyadh have raised Turki Al-Jasser's case with the Saudi authorities. The UK strongly opposes the death penalty in all countries and circumstances.

Lord Collins of Highbury
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
25th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, which (a) international treaties and (b) obligations will apply to (i) the Chagos Archipelago and (ii) Diego Garcia as a result of the transfer of sovereignty to Mauritius; and if he has undertaken an assessment of the potential impact of those obligations on (A) the Chagos Archipelago and (B) Diego Garcia.

The Treaty ensures that its terms are compatible with the other international obligations of the Parties, current and future. The United Kingdom will ensure all operations on Diego Garcia comply with its obligations under applicable international law.

Stephen Doughty
Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
26th Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government how they marked the UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture on 26 June; and what plans they have to promote the introduction of international controls on weapons and equipment that could be used for torture, including at this year’s UN General Assembly.

The UK Government remains committed to preventing torture and tackling impunity for those who torture others. It is essential for safeguarding our security and integral to a fair legal system and the rule of law.

At the UN General Assembly, we will continue to work with allies to encourage all states to uphold their international human rights obligations. As a member of the Global Alliance on Torture Free Trade, the UK supports the initiative to stop the trade of goods used for capital punishment and torture. Goods are subject to export restrictions if they can be used for torture, capital punishment, or cruel and inhuman treatment. Export licence applications are considered against the Strategic Export Licensing Criteria. The Government will not grant a licence for items where we determine there is a clear risk that the items might be used to commit or facilitate internal repression.

Lord Collins of Highbury
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
25th Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of implications for international law of the decision of the United States of America to bomb Iran.

It is not for the UK to comment on the US' legal position and the UK did not participate in these strikes. We expect all parties to abide by international law. Our priority is stability in the Middle East and we have been clear with all sides that restarting the conflict is in nobody's interest.

Lord Collins of Highbury
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
17th Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they have taken to support the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force monitoring the Golan Heights between Israel and Syria.

The UK has been clear that the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) remains vital for stability at this pivotal moment for Syria and the wider region [we said this at the last public meeting on UNDOF in January - https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/the-uk-will-continue-to-support-unifils-essential-role-in-maintaining-calm-along-the-blue-line-uk-statement-at-the-un-security-council] and we have called for all parties to respect the terms of the Agreement. We participate regularly in UN Security Council Meetings on UNDOF, most recently consultations on 12 June 2025. In December 2024, the Prime Minister reiterated, along with G7 partners, his support for UNDOF. [G7 Leaders' Statement on Syria: 12 December 2024 - https://www.gov.uk/government/news/g7-leaders-statement-on-syria-12-december-2024].

Lord Collins of Highbury
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
26th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent representations he has made to the Taliban on the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan: and what outcome he has achieved.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) officials regularly speak to the Taliban on the UK Government's priorities, including women's rights in Afghanistan, most recently in June. Ministers do not engage with the Taliban. The Foreign Secretary condemned the erosion of women and girls' rights in the appalling "vice and virtue" law introduced in August 2024. The UK Government is working with international partners to maintain collective pressure on the Taliban to reverse their inhuman restrictions. Upholding human rights and gender equality is not only a moral imperative but also essential for building a stable, inclusive and prosperous country for all Afghans.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
19th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether British nationals will be evacuated from Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

Support to British nationals remains our top priority and we have worked at pace to ensure those who want to leave Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories can do so, with six flights leaving Israel since 24 June. At this time, no further flights are planned. Commercial flights are now available. This remains a fast-moving and fragile situation, and plans will be kept under constant review.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
23rd Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will take steps to ensure that any produce originating in Western Sahara is labelled as such.

The Government is committed to ensuring that UK consumers are not misled about the origin of the food they purchase. In accordance with retained EU Regulation 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers, food labelling must not be misleading, including in relation to the origin or provenance of food. The UK is responsible for enforcing this regulation within the UK.

On 1 June, the Foreign Secretary endorsed Morocco's autonomy proposal as the most credible, viable and pragmatic basis for a lasting resolution of the Western Sahara conflict. In that context, we continue to support the parties and the UN to reach a just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution, based on compromise, which conforms with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including the principle of respect for self-determination.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
23rd Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has had discussions with his Moroccan counterpart on Morocco's refusal to allow a visit to Western Sahara by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights since January 2016.

The UK remains committed to the promotion and protection of human rights globally, including in Morocco and Western Sahara. Officials, including up to Ambassador level regularly engage on these issues with the Moroccan Government and authorities accordingly. During the Foreign Secretary's visit to Morocco in June, the joint-communique of the Strategic Dialogue reaffirmed both countries commitment to cooperate on issues of human rights and the intention to hold a third session of the UK-Morocco Human Rights dialogue before the end of 2025. The UK has also supported language in UN Security Council Resolutions that encourages the parties to enhance the promotion and protection of human rights in Western Sahara, including through cooperation with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
25th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to monitor the (a) situation and (b) safety of British nationals in Iran.

Our Embassy in Tehran, which continues to operate remotely, is closely monitoring the situation in Iran. We remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of our nationals, including those detained.

However we have long advised against all travel to Iran and warned British Nationals that in an emergency the UK government will not be able to evacuate or provide face-to-face assistance.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
26th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how many evacuation flights have been arranged for UK nationals from (a) Israel, and (b) the West Bank since 13 June 2025.

The UK Government have arranged six flights from Israel since 24 June. At this time, no further flights are planned. Commercial flights are now available. This remains a fast-moving and fragile situation, and plans will be kept under constant review.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
26th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of imposing sanctions on any British company operating in the illegal settlement activity in the West Bank.

We are deeply concerned by the levels of settlement expansion and settler violence in the West Bank and continue to urge the Government of Israel to stop settlement expansion and take action to hold violence to account. Settlements are illegal under international law.

On 20 May the UK imposed sanctions on three individuals, two illegal settler outposts and two organisations supporting violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank. On 10 June the UK, acting alongside partners Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Norway, imposed sanctions on Israeli government ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich in their personal capacity, in response to their repeated incitements of violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank.

The UK does not recognise the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including Israeli settlements, as part of Israel. Goods imported from the settlements are therefore not entitled to benefit from trade preferences under the UK-Israel Trade and Partnership Agreement. The UK also supports accurate labelling of settlement goods, so as not to mislead the consumer.

Sanctions can be used to achieve a range of foreign and security policy objectives. We use sanctions when they complement other tools as part of a wider strategy.  It would not be appropriate to speculate about future sanctions designations as to do so could reduce their impact. We have been clear that we keep these issues under close review.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how many flights have been chartered to evacuate UK citizens from Iran.

Flights have been chartered to evacuate UK citizens from Israel. The UK Government has not chartered flights to evacuate UK citizens from Iran. Media reports suggest the Iranian airspace is in the process of re-opening.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with his counterpart in Israel on compensation for the relatives of British aid workers killed while delivering humanitarian aid in Gaza.

The Prime Minister and I recently met with the families of British aid workers killed in Gaza.

The Government's priority is securing justice for the appalling strike that killed John Chapman, James Henderson, and James Kirby. We continue to press Israel to swiftly conclude the Military Advocate General's (MAG) investigation into consideration of events on the 1 April 2024, including determining whether criminal proceedings should be initiated. The Foreign Secretary has repeatedly pressed Foreign Affairs Minister Sa'ar and Minister of Strategic Affairs Dermer for the MAG to conclude consideration of the case swiftly and thoroughly.

We have advised the families on their legal options for claiming compensation and that is a matter for them to pursue independently through the Israeli legal system.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
27th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with the Syrian authorities following the suicide bombing that resulted in twenty three deaths and scores injured at a Church in Damascus on 23 June 2025.

The UK strongly condemns the horrific terrorist attack at Mar Elias Church in Damascus, and remains committed to combatting terrorism in all forms. I sent a personal message to Syrian Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani, expressing my condolences and the UK's continued support to the people of Syria. The UK Special Representative for Syria visited Damascus last week and discussed the assessment of the situation with the Syrian authorities, including the Foreign Minister and also gave her condolences. We will continue to advocate for the right to Freedom of Religion or Belief for all Syrians.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
30th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to table 2.6 of HM Treasury's document entitled Spending Review 2025: Departmental Efficiency Plans, published on 11 June 2025, whether he has had discussions with the BBC on proposals for potential costs savings of the BBC World Service.

No decisions have been taken on the World Service Grant-in-Aid funding for the next three years (2026/27 and beyond). This was not settled in the Spending Review and will be determined alongside our other Official Development Assistance and Non-ODA allocations, in the autumn.

For the Spending Review, the Treasury asked the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (along with most departments) to identify efficiency savings and to model certain budget scenarios. The request we made - to model scenarios equivalent to flat cash and a 2 per cent per year budget reduction, equating to around £3 million per year - was in line with that Treasury request.

Catherine West
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with his Pakistani counterpart on first cousin marriage involving UK and Pakistani nationals.

The UK Government has not held recent discussions with the Government of Pakistan on first cousin marriage involving UK and Pakistani nationals. The Marriage (Prohibited Degrees of Relationship) Bill, currently under consideration in the UK Parliament, is a domestic legislative matter.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
26th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of moving the the UK Mission to Afghanistan from Doha to a UK-based Afghanistan department.

The UK Mission to Afghanistan in Doha closed on 30 June 2025. Mr Richard Lindsay was appointed as Special Envoy to Afghanistan on 17 June. He will lead a new Afghanistan department from the UK, taking on the duties of the current Chargé d'Affaires. These changes will not affect our resolve to support the people of Afghanistan, which is unwavering.

This new approach will allow the UK to engage with a broader range of Afghans. The Special Envoy will engage the Taliban on UK priorities including counter terrorism, human rights, and humanitarian access; support intra-Afghan dialogue; engage women, religious and ethnic minorities who suffer at the hands of the Taliban; and work with regional countries on shared priorities.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
26th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will publish the expected advisory arrangements to the Special Envoy for Afghanistan.

The UK Mission to Afghanistan in Doha closed on 30 June 2025. Mr Richard Lindsay was appointed as Special Envoy to Afghanistan on 17 June. He will lead a new Afghanistan department from the UK, taking on the duties of the current Chargé d'Affaires. These changes will not affect our resolve to support the people of Afghanistan, which is unwavering.

This new model will allow the UK to actively engage with a broader range of Afghans. The Special Envoy will engage the Taliban on UK priorities including counter terrorism, human rights, and humanitarian access; support intra-Afghan dialogue; engage women, religious and ethnic minorities who suffer at the hands of the Taliban; and work with regional countries on shared priorities.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
26th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what mechanisms his Department has put in place to monitor the delivery of UK-funded aid in Afghanistan.

The Assurance and Learning Programme was established by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in 2022 to strengthen oversight of the delivery of UK-funded aid in Afghanistan by providing independent third-party monitoring and portfolio monitoring, evaluation and learning. In addition, officials visit Kabul regularly and meet partners there. FCDO's Official Development Assistance (ODA) programmes in Afghanistan have been subject to regular Independent Commission for Aid Impact (ICAI) oversight. FCDO facilitated a visit to Kabul by the ICAI Commissioner Sir Hugh Bayley in May 2024, where he met UN agencies and local and international NGOs supported by the UK to support the completion of an Information Note.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
30th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the Written Ministerial Statement of 17 June 2025 on Afghanistan, HCWS703, what (a) recommendations and (b) actions were agreed as part of the dialogue on food insecurity.

As part of its response to the dire food security and nutrition situation in Afghanistan, the UK is convening a range of stakeholders to explore how we can collectively maximise the impact of our work on this issue. These discussions are ongoing and will conclude in October where we hope to secure joint commitments from donors and partners to work together to improve the situation, particularly for women and children.

As part of this initiative, my colleague the Minister of State for International Development has invited you and fellow interested MPs and Peers to join the United Nations Children's Fund, and partners for the UK Launch of First Foods Afghanistan in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on 17 July - I do hope you will be able to join this important presentation and discussion.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
25th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what estimate he has made of the total funding contribution provided to Mauritius through (a) bilateral and (b) multilateral institutions (i) since July 2024, (ii) for 2025-26 and (iii) for each of the next five financial years.

UK Official Development Assistance can be found in the "Statistics on International Development (SID)." The UK Official Development Assistance spend in Mauritius from July 2024 is not yet available on SID and the latest data is up to 2023.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
9th Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports that the governments of Mauritius and Russia have agreed to strengthen their relationship on fishing and marine research; and what implications this will have for the United Kingdom’s military base on Diego Garcia.

The Treaty explicitly grants all rights and authorities that the United Kingdom requires for the long-term, secure and effective operation of the Base. Mauritius as a sovereign nation has agreements with many countries on a range of issues which have no bearing on the Treaty. We will retain full control over Diego Garcia with robust provisions to keep adversaries out. These include unrestricted access to and use of the base for the UK and US; a buffer zone around Diego Garcia; a comprehensive mechanism to ensure no activity in the other islands threatens base operations; and a ban on the presence of any foreign security forces.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
23rd Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with (a) his US counterpart and (b) other international partners on the compliance of US military strikes on Iran with the United Kingdom’s obligations under international law; and what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of those strikes.

The UK did not participate in the US' strikes. The Foreign Secretary has been engaging with Secretary of State Rubio on a regular basis, to discuss the need for Iran to return to the negotiating table as soon as possible and to make progress on a lasting settlement, to address Iran's nuclear programme. The legal basis for the US' action is a matter for them.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
26th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with his Chinese counterpart on the (a) arrest of the father of Anna Kwok and (b) additional charges laid against Joshua Wong.

The UK is closely monitoring the prosecution of Kwok Yin-sang, father of US-based Anna Kwok, and is deeply concerned by the news of further charges against Joshua Wong who is currently detained in Hong Kong. China's imposition of the National Security Law has significantly eroded the rights and freedoms of Hong Kongers, a situation that has worsened with the enactment of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. We call on Beijing to repeal the National Security Law and end the prosecution of all individuals charged under it.

Catherine West
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
25th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to monitor the (a) situation and (b) safety of British nationals in (i) Israel and (ii) the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

Consular teams have worked round the clock to support British nationals in the region. As soon as Israeli airspace re-opened UK government charter flights left Israel carrying over 340 British nationals on six flights. In allocating seats, we prioritised those who were most vulnerable, including those with medical needs, children, and the elderly. At this time, no further flights are planned. Commercial flights are now available. This remains a fast-moving and fragile situation, and plans will be kept under constant review.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to his Department's news story entitled LGBTQIA+ Legal Guidebook launched in Philippines for Pride Month, published on 23 June 2025, how many similar foreign LGBTQIA+‑related publications his Department has produced in the last five years; and what the cost to the public purse was.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office-funded projects and programmes, delivered through external partners, routinely produce a variety of internal and external research, evidence, reports, and toolkits to support UK work on human rights and equality for all, including on LGBT+ rights. Due to the volume of documents produced and the sensitivity of the issues being considered, we do not hold a comprehensive list of similar reports produced across the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office over the past five years.

Catherine West
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what the cost to the public purse was of the (a) research, (b) design, (c) publication and (d) distribution of the LGBTQIA+ Legal Guidebook.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office works with a range of organisations globally to protect and promote the human rights of the most vulnerable communities. The guidebook in question was developed by external partners, with no cost to the public purse for research, design and distribution. A small amount of money (£700) was allocated to support publication of the guidebook.

Catherine West
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how much his Department has spent on (a) social media promotions, (b) influencer marketing and (c) online advertising in the last 12 months.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office combines all Advertising & Publicity costs in its financial reporting system. The information required to delineate between social media promotions, influencer marketing and online advertising is not readily available and could only be obtained at disproportionate cost.

Catherine West
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how many staff hours in his Department were allocated to (a) drafting, (b) reviewing and (c) promoting the LGBTQIA+ Legal Guidebook; and what estimate he has made of the total cost of this.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office works with a range of organisations globally to protect and promote the human rights of the most vulnerable communities. The Legal Guidebook in question was developed by external partners, with no HMG staff time allocated to drafting. A small amount of staff time in our Embassy in Manila was allocated to hosting the launch event, part of HMG's efforts to advocate for human rights-compliant laws and policies around the world.

Catherine West
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
26th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961, what discussions he has had with his Chinese counterparts on ensuring authorisation for UK contractors to access the British Embassy in Beijing to undertake repair and maintenance work.

UK contractors routinely visit our overseas missions around the world, including in China, to carry out maintenance and repairs. We have not had cause to raise this with the Chinese authorities.

Catherine West
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
30th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with his Sri Lankan counterpart on the recent excavations of a mass grave of Chemmani in Sri Lanka.

The UK Government is deeply concerned by the recent discovery of the mass grave in Chemmani. We remain committed to supporting accountability for human rights violations and we regularly meet the Government of Sri Lanka to discuss reconciliation and accountability and to press for tangible progress, particularly on cases of enforced disappearances. In January, I visited Sri Lanka and met a range of stakeholders including the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, civil society organisations, as well as political leaders in the north of Sri Lanka to discuss human rights. Officials at our High Commission in Colombo maintain close contact with families of the disappeared from across the country, working to ensure their voices are heard, and have raised this issue with the Government of Sri Lanka. We continue to lead international efforts such as at the UN Human Rights Council alongside the Core Group to ensure perpetrators are held to account.

Catherine West
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
23rd Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of their agreement with the government of Mauritius about the British Indian Ocean Territory in the light of recent developments in the Middle East, and the strategic position of the British Indian Ocean Territory.

The Diego Garcia military base deal is absolutely vital for our defence and intelligence, and therefore for the safety and security of the British people and our allies. All UK overseas bases are operated in accordance with our obligations under international law. This includes Diego Garcia.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
24th Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what recent discussions they have had with the government of Finland on that country's recent decision to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention on anti-personnel landmines.

His Majesty's Government (HMG) has noted that Finland has stated its intention to withdraw. We also acknowledge its sovereign right to make this decision.

The Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction (also known as the Ottawa Convention) continues to play an important role in protecting civilians from harm caused by anti-personnel landmines. As a State Party to the Ottawa Convention, the UK's commitment to it remains unwavering. We promote universalisation and encourage all countries to join the Ottawa Convention and subscribe to its provisions, and we discourage States from using anti-personnel landmines. The UK continues to engage bilaterally with Finland to better understand the actions it may take following withdrawal.

HMG continues to express its commitment to the Ottawa Convention, most recently by Minister of State, Ministry of Defence, Lord Coaker, in a Written Parliamentary Question, on 23 June 2025, in the House of Lords.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
23rd Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what proportion of UK aid delivered to (1) Nigeria, (2) Ghana, and (3) other Sub-Saharan African countries, was spent on (a) clinical training, and (b) strengthening health systems, in those countries in each of the past three years.

The UK remains committed to global health. Strong, national health systems are the foundation for all aspects of health, from essential childhood immunisation to global health security. We align investments behind the priorities of partner countries. In Nigeria, the LAFIYA-UK programme strengthens systems to improve health and nutrition services. The proportion of UK aid spent on health from the bilateral budget was 11 per cent in 2022-23 and 2023-24, and 19 per cent in 2024-25. In Ghana, our Partnership Beyond Aid and Leave No One Behind programmes have improved quality, efficiency and resilience in the health system, and the inclusion of vulnerable and marginalised groups. The proportion of UK aid spent on health from the bilateral budget was 23 per cent in 2022-23, 30 per cent in 2023-2024, and 19 per cent in 2024-2025. The UK also provides significant support to strengthening the global health workforce through multilateral investments such as the World Health Organisation, World Bank and the Global Health Initiatives, who support in-service clinical training for health workers. Our multilateral contribution on global health totalled £3.1 billion in 2021-2023 and the Department of Health and Social Care's Global Health Workforce Programme (£15 million from 2023-2026) supports the development of the health workforce in Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya.

Lord Collins of Highbury
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
24th Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the ongoing effectiveness of the Ottawa Convention on anti-personnel landmines following Finland's recent decision to withdraw from it.

His Majesty's Government (HMG) has noted that Finland has stated its intention to withdraw. We also acknowledge its sovereign right to make this decision.

The Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction (also known as the Ottawa Convention) continues to play an important role in protecting civilians from harm caused by anti-personnel landmines. As a State Party to the Ottawa Convention, the UK's commitment to it remains unwavering. We promote universalisation and encourage all countries to join the Ottawa Convention and subscribe to its provisions, and we discourage States from using anti-personnel landmines. The UK continues to engage bilaterally with Finland to better understand the actions it may take following withdrawal.

HMG continues to express its commitment to the Ottawa Convention, most recently by Minister of State, Ministry of Defence, Lord Coaker, in a Written Parliamentary Question, on 23 June 2025, in the House of Lords.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
26th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations he has made support an independent UN investigation into the Chemmani site in Sri Lanka, which includes (a) exhumations, (b) forensic analysis, and (c) victim centred consultations.

The UK Government is deeply concerned by the recent discovery of the mass grave in Chemmani. We remain committed to supporting accountability for human rights violations and we regularly meet the Government of Sri Lanka to discuss reconciliation and accountability and to press for tangible progress, particularly on cases of enforced disappearances. In January, I visited Sri Lanka and met a range of stakeholders including the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, civil society organisations, as well as political leaders in the north of Sri Lanka to discuss human rights. Officials at our High Commission in Colombo maintain close contact with families of the disappeared from across the country, working to ensure their voices are heard, and have raised this issue with the Government of Sri Lanka. We continue to lead international efforts such as at the UN Human Rights Council alongside the Core Group to ensure perpetrators are held to account.

Catherine West
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
19th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 17 June 2025 to Question 59412 on Government Departments: Reviews, if his Department will publish the line by line review of its spending conducted for the Spending Review 2025.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is committed to meeting the 5 per cent savings and efficiency target with Spending Review funding allocations agreed on this basis, including through the FCDO2030 strategic change programme.

These funding allocations - informed by the findings of the zero-based review - are the first step in a wider plan to finalise budgets for different projects and programmes, with any necessary savings decided through that process. The savings taken forward will be subject to the normal rigorous business planning processes, and in-year financial management.

Catherine West
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
26th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to his oral statement of 24 June 2025, Official Report, column 989, on China Audit, which (a) Northern Ireland Executive departments, (b) arms' length bodies in Northern Ireland and (c) Universities in Northern Ireland made a submission to that audit.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office China Audit team proactively engaged a wide range of stakeholders to ensure that the full range of interests arising from the UK's relationship with China was represented; this included Parliament, business, the academic sector, civil society and the devolved governments.

Catherine West
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
25th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to his letter to the Foreign Affairs Committee, dated 16 June 2025, If he will publish the details of the FCDO2030 change programme.

We face a generational challenge to the UK's national interests. Our FCDO2030 change programme rises to this challenge, ensuring that the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's (FCDO) people, resources and action deliver the greatest possible international impact for the benefit of the British people. Updates on this programme will continue to be shared.

Catherine West
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
23rd Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will publish the eligibility criteria for repatriation flights from Israel.

The eligibility criteria for repatriation flights from Israel is published on the UK Government Travel Advice page for Israel (https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/israel).

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
20th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to support people stranded in Tel Aviv.

The safety and security of British nationals is our top priority. Since the beginning of this crisis, when Israeli airspace closed, we deployed specialist teams to the Egyptian and Jordanian borders to support British nationals wishing to leave Israel by land and facilitate their onward travel. When Israeli airspace opened on 24 June we worked at pace to ensure those who wanted to leave Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could do so, with six evacuation flights leaving Israel.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
25th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has made an estimate of cash payments to be made to Mauritius in each of the next 99 years under the provisions of the UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia; and what estimate he has made of levels of annual inflationary uplifts.

I refer the Rt Hon Member to the reply to her question 57197.

Stephen Doughty
Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
25th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to his letter to the Foreign Affairs Committee, dated 16 June 2025, how much of the £200 million uplift will be used to make payments to Mauritius under the requirements of the UK-Mauritius Treaty.

The payments to Mauritius will be split between the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and Ministry of Defence (MoD). They will be published in the normal manner alongside other departmental spend in the annual accounts.

Stephen Doughty
Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
23rd Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with his counterparts in (a) Israel, (b) Iran and (c) the USA concerning the recent military actions in the Israel-Iran conflict.

The UK did not participate in recent US or Israeli military strikes. This week alone, the Foreign Secretary has spoken with, amongst others, Secretary of State Rubio, Foreign Minister Sa'ar and Foreign Minister Araghchi. I also met the Iranian Ambassador to the UK on 23 June. In our engagement with these and other nations, the Foreign Secretary and I have stressed that stability, de-escalation and restraint are key, and urged all parties to seize the opportunity for a diplomatic solution.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
26th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what plans he has for allowing parliamentary time for (a) scrutiny and (b) ratification of the UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia.

We have consistently said that, once a deal was signed, we would lay it before the House for scrutiny in the usual way. That is exactly what we have done. Parliamentary business will be arranged in the usual way.

I have appeared before the IRDC/IAC on 17 June and the FAC on 23 June to discuss the agreement, I have also answered over a hundred written parliamentary questions on the Chagos Archipelago since 22 May.

Stephen Doughty
Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
25th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, If he has held discussions with his Mauritian counterpart on the applicability of the Pelindaba Treaty obligations on (a) the Chagos Archipelago;and (b) Diego Garcia as a consequence of the UK-Mauritius Treaty.

I refer the Rt Hon member to the reply to her question 57628.

Stephen Doughty
Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)